Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries (OASIS)

OASIS injuries can be a significant complication of vaginal deliveries.

Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries

Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries (OASIS) are significant complications of vaginal delivery involving damage to the anal sphincter complex. Injuries include third-degree tears, where the anal sphincter is partially or fully damaged, and fourth-degree tears, which extend to the rectal mucosa.

Short-term complications may include:

  • Perineal pain: Discomfort in the area between the vagina and anus.
  • Wound infections: Due to the complexity of the injury and its location.
  • Fistula formation: Abnormal connections between the vagina and rectum, which may result in the leakage of stool.

Long-term complications may include:

  • Dyspareunia: Pain during sexual intercourse.
  • Chronic pain: Persistent discomfort in the pelvic region.
  • Fecal urgency and incontinence: Difficulty controlling bowel movements, leading to distress and lifestyle changes.
  • Pelvic organ prolapse: Weakening of pelvic floor muscles, causing organs to descend into the vaginal canal.
External Sphincter Tear Mid Anal Canal 3D

Classification of Perineal Injuries

Perineal and Anal Sphincter Trauma, Sultan and Thakar (2007)
ClassificationInjury
1St DegreeTear involving Vaginal epithelium
2nd DegreeTear to the perineal muscles but not involving the Anal Sphincter
3rd DegreeAny involvement with the Anal Sphincter
3ALess than 50% External Anal Sphincter Tear
3BMore than 50% of External Anal Sphincter Tea
3CInternal Anal Sphincter Tear
4th DegreeTear to the perineum involving Anal Sphincter Complex and Anorectal Mucosa

Diagnose OASIS With Ultrasound

Endoanal ultrasound is an important diagnostic tool for assessing these injuries. Studies show that about one-third of OASIS cases can be diagnosed by this method even eight weeks postpartum. Proper diagnosis and treatment are critical to managing the immediate and long-term consequences of these injuries.

Halo’s pelvic floor ultrasound machine, partnered with our Midcrystal 360˚ Endoanal Probe 2D/3D, offers advanced diagnostic capabilities for evaluating Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries (OASIS). 

This powerful tool provides high-resolution, comprehensive images, allowing for precise assessment of the extent of sphincter and tissue damage following vaginal delivery.

Ultrasound Benefits

Benefits of using this technology include:

  • Short exam times: Efficient scans minimize discomfort for the patient and reduce time in the clinic.
  • Clear imaging: Detailed 360-degree views of the pelvic floor and anal sphincter complex ensure accurate diagnosis.
  • Personalized care: The clarity of the images enables healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans according to the specific injury, improving patient outcomes.

Ultrasound Probes

Halo ultrasound probes are designed to identify anal fistula.

  • Ultrasound imaging of the anal sphincter complex: a review


    This article investigates and compares Endoanal US, Endovaginal US, and Transperineal US for the detection and measurement of IAS and EAS defects. 
    Learn More